My daughter came home yesterday from school and reported that her history teacher had referred to mulims as "towelheads" I find that extremely offensive and her father and I promptly sent a letter to the school principal. He seems to think its "not that bad" I would like some advice on similar situations. Maybe a muslim would be able to advise on the right course of action. If you wouldn't make a stink about it...should I??

My daughter came home yesterday from school and reported that her history teacher had referred to mulims as "towelheads" I find that extremely offensive and her father and I promptly sent a letter to the school principal. He seems to think its "not that bad" I would like some advice on similar situations. Maybe a muslim would be able to advise on the right course of action. If you wouldn't make a stink about it...should I??Thank you,Shannon

Thank you very much for taking the time to come here and ask these questions.

It is wonderful that you found this offensive and actually sent a letter in protest. I am assuming that there are no Muslim childen at the school?

The Prophet Mohammed was very patient with those who were not Muslim, but Islam does not condone prejudice in any manner. As a person of conscience, I would not want my children or myself exposed to this type of stereotyping and name calling.

If the principal still seems to feel that what he said was fine, perhaps you could contact the school board and let them know that he might need some sensitivity training. If this doesn't work, you can report the incident to CAIR, the Council on American Islamic Relations http://www.cair-net.org/ They are a group of American Muslims who work to change misconceptions about Muslims in America.

I know there are many Muslims in Virginia and it is very hurtful to be singled out in thios manner. Thank you for taking a stand.

Dwanna

It is only with the heart that one can see clearly, what is essential is invisible to the eye. (The Little Prince)

We have let the principal know that if he chooses to do nothing about it, we would be going to the school board but I'm afraid that it would be more of the same. We have asked that the teacher go through sensitivity training but the principal said that he couldn't discuss any corrective action because it would be an invasion of the teacher's privacy.

My children have been taught that racism/sexism/prejudice etc...in any form is wrong. We don't use hateful words and we stand up against those who do. This will be my second similar issue with this school. The other remark was against the poor on welfare so not related to this but still offensive.

I do appreciate your help on this matter and I will take any and all advice that you will give.

Since you seem to be getting nowhere with the school and they seem more interested in protecting the teacher's privacy, above your right to have your child taught in a tolerant and inclusive environment, I would go ahead and contact CAIR and ask them to help you take action.

They will know what to do in this situation. They have an office in Herndon and an office in Bethesda, but you can e-mail them from the website.

Dwanna

It is only with the heart that one can see clearly, what is essential is invisible to the eye. (The Little Prince)

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